The Best Futon Mattresses

The Best Futon Mattresses

Futons aren't just standard college apartment décor anymore. In fact, traditional futons were originally a Japanese invention. Meant to offer a more comfortable, perfected sleeping solution, futons were designed to be thin and firm. Since their invention, however, they've taken on a new life. With options ranging from more traditional style to coiled memory foam mattresses, futons can serve as beds, seats, and guest room furnishings. They're also fantastic for small spaces. In the market for a new futon? We've got you covered with all of the best options, below.

MAXYOYO Japanese Floor Futon Mattress

Memory Foam Futon

Our Best Overall option is an ultra-comfy and plush futon mattress for that perfect boho-vibe.
Best Overall

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MAXYOYO has created the perfect boho-style futon with this Japanese Floor Mattress. Picture it as extra seating, a cozy window-seat mattress, or as a large floor pillow. Made with a gorgeous cotton cover, this futon has a cotton and memory foam interior that is incredibly comfy. Softer than most, this futon is made from plush memory foam with a semi-firm feel that invites rest and recovery. Designed with five layers that perfectly mold and support your body, this futon mattress is still foldable and can be easily transported.

Pros:

  • It even comes with its own storage bag
  • Multiple vibrant color choices
  • Arrives compressed
  • 100% cotton cover

Cons:

  • If you’re sleeping on this for an extended period of time, it’s a bit too firm on hardwood floors

DHP Futon Mattress

Coils for Comfort and Support

Offering just the right amount of bounce, this coil futon mattress delivers comfortable support.
Best Coiled Mattress

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Small space, big taste? This trendy futon mattress has an updated look to suit your decor needs but doubles as a pull-out bed, so it’s ideal for small spaces. It’s comfy, too, so you don’t have to sacrifice just to have a convenient seating/bedding option. Made with independently encased coils, you’ll have a bed that supports your body without feeling like metal is poking through at you. With a tufted polyester layer around the springs, you’ll feel lovely soft support that holds its value.

Pros:

  • 6″ coil futon depth
  • Fits any full-size futon frame
  • Made without toxic flame retardants or heavy metals (it’s also low in VOC emissions)
  • Understated color options that match virtually any decor

Cons:

  • The included cover is thin—grab an additional one for durability

Mozaic Twill Futon Mattress

Ultra-Comfortable Tufted Futon

This pick is tufted for durability and even weight distribution.
Best Tufted Mattress

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Similar to a more traditional futon mattress, the Mozaic Twill Futon Mattress has a memory foam mattress with a soft cotton twill cover. It’s tufted for comfort and durability. That’s because when something is tufted, it keeps the inner material in place. This means when you sit on it, you’re supported in an even way. And of course, it also means that the mattress holds its shape for much longer. The result? The Mozaic Twill Futon Mattress is an incredibly comfortable, durable, and supportive futon.

Pros:

  • Durable cotton twill cover
  • Dual-sided memory foam
  • Multiple stylish color choices
  • 12-inches thick for exceptional comfort

Cons:

  • It’s a bit thick to fold into a couch

FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon

Durability and Tradition

Keeping the traditional Japanese futon style in mind, this futon is a high-quality, long-lasting option.
Best Japanese Style

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If you’re looking for a traditional shikibuton, this FULI futon is exactly that. Made in Japan and designed exactly like a traditional shikibuton futon, this is an incredibly durable futon that’ll last through years of constant use. Made with three layers, this is ideal for sleeping on the floor in a more traditional way. Not interested in that? Well, it’s also wonderful as a meditation spot, extra bed, or for use as a window seat or daybed. With sizes that range from twin through king, this can fit virtually anywhere.

Pros:

  • Dries quickly
  • Compression packing for manageability
  • Traditional yet budget-friendly
  • Easy to fold

Cons:

  • If you’re sleeping on this, it takes some time and adjustment to get used to the feeling, since it’s pretty firm

D&D Futon Furniture Rolling Futon Mattress

A Portable Futon Option

With two carrying straps, this futon can go just about anywhere.
Most Portable

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The thing about futons is that they tend to be hard to move around. Typically heavy and cumbersome, once you put a futon down, it tends to stay there. That’s a shame because they’re wonderful for sleeping on (once you get used to it), and can be used for camping or sleep-overs in a pinch. They’re also fantastic meditation mats. So when we found this one from D&D, we were thrilled. With straps that wrap around it once rolled, this is a manageable futon that can go wherever you want it to go. Just simply roll up, strap, and carry it. Made with cotton, polyester, and one-inch foam, this is a firm option for a floor futon.

Pros:

  • Durable straps for portability
  • Easily rolls up into a compact roll
  • Firm mattress

Cons:

  • Only comes in one color

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use a futon mattress for a mattress?

Absolutely. It might take some thought-adjustment though, as futons are typically much firmer than mattresses you may be used to.

What can futon mattresses be used for?

Typically, futons are used as an extra couch or bed option. But they can also be used as meditation pillows, cushions for window seats, or floor seating.

How long do futon mattresses last?

Depending on the style and quality, futon mattresses can last anywhere from 5-15 years. If you use it less frequently, you’ll definitely have it for 15 years or more. To keep it in top shape, air it out, rotate it frequently, and keep it clean and protected. When it starts to sag, is uneven, or falling apart, you know it’s time for a new one.